Senator Abetz asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 29 June 2011:

With reference to the luxury car tax changes where exemptions were made for particular categories for vehicles associated with primary production and tourism, can details be provided on how many vehicles and individuals have been provided with the exemption since the implementation of the scheme.

Senator Wong: The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question:

Under sections 18-5 and 18-10 of the A New Tax System (Luxury Car Tax) Act1999, eligible primary producers and tourism operators are able to apply for a refund of the luxury car tax paid for certain cars. The amount of luxury car tax refundable is up to $3,000 of the luxury car tax paid. Primary producers are limited to a refund entitlement of one car per financial year.

Between 1 July 2008, the commencement of the scheme and 25 July 2011, a total of 610 individuals/businesses were provided with a refund of luxury car tax. Of the 610 claims paid, 591 were for vehicles used by primary producers and 19 for vehicles used by tourism operators.